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Townsend out as city administrator in STC, headed to Schaumburg

ST. CHARLES – St. Charles City Administrator Brian Townsend is leaving next month for a job in Schaumburg, multiple sources said Friday.

Rumors have swirled about Townsend's future with St. Charles as he and the St. Charles City Council continued to hash out details of his contract with the city. The City Council has approved three 30-day contract extensions since Mayor Ray Rogina took office in May.

Rogina described Townsend as a fine man and capable leader who will serve Schaumburg "very well." He said he learned Monday of Townsend's decision.

"There was an offer on the table; it sat there for a while, and he informed me he was taking this job in Schaumburg," Rogina said. "I wish him nothing but the best."

Townsend, who was out of the office Friday and did not respond to voicemail messages seeking comment, said in a press release that St. Charles had been a wonderful city to work for.

"I have enjoyed projects that have been both challenging and rewarding," Townsend said in the release. "I appreciate the opportunity to work with former Mayor Don DeWitte, Mayor Ray Rogina, the members of the City Council and city staff to enhance the reputation of St. Charles as a community that is admired and an organization that is respected."

Schaumburg Village President Al Larson said the Schaumburg Village Board is expected to vote on Townsend's appointment as village manager on Tuesday. He noted there's been "consensus and agreement" and negotiations have been completed.

Townsend's resignation from St. Charles is effective Aug. 30. He is expected to begin work in Schaumburg on Aug. 31, Larson said.

Townsend was appointed St. Charles city administrator by former Mayor Don DeWitte in 2005. He previously served in various roles at Schaumburg, including as assistant village manager.

When current Schaumburg Village Manager Ken Fritz announced his retirement in June, Larson said "the first name that popped in my head was Brian Townsend."

According to a press release, St. Charles will begin searching for a new city administrator immediately, but no definitive timetable has been set.

"We're a wonderful community, and I'm not too concerned about getting a quality applicant," Rogina said, adding the city will move toward appointing an interim administrator.

Rogina said he also isn't worried about turnover in the Economic Development Department. Coordinator Michael Mertes recently left for a position in Arlington Heights, and Director Chris Aiston announced this week that he will retire July 31.

"We're in capable hands," Rogina said. "We have a fine staff."

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